What happens when designer couples clash? With two designers in a family, there's bound to be the occasional decorating dustup. Eight couples share their design battles — and compromises.

An Artist's Mural

An Artist's Mural

"Once we had a visit from an artist, who was enchanted by our home's picturesque setting — a wild kingdom of ospreys, hawks, eagles, and other wildlife. Before we knew it, we had a beautiful sepia-toned mural in our dining room. I love it, but Phoebe grew tired of it almost immediately. I guess we can always repaint." —Jim Howard, Interior Designer

"Or sell the house, so we don't have to debate it any further!" —Phoebe Howard, Interior Designer

Peg Rail

Peg Rail

"When Eric insisted on putting up this Shaker peg rail in our beach house, I thought it was a wasted opportunity. He likes that pared-down, utilitarian aesthetic, but I wanted a wall of art, floor to ceiling." —Nathan Turner, Interior Designer

"My agenda was practical. The beach is all about towels, suits, hats, keys — and, of course, where to put it all. I would have kept the wall above the rail bare, but Nathan claimed it, and I've come to appreciate this ever-changing gallery of personal images." —Eric Hughes, Interior Designer